WASHINGTON STATE — Lawmakers are discussing a new bill aimed at expanding the state’s existing plastic bag ban while increasing the fee for paper bags. This proposal is being considered as research suggests the current ban may not be as effective as intended.
The proposed bill seeks to ban all plastic bags, including thicker reusable ones, and raise the paper bag fee from 8 cents to 20 cents. Customers utilizing Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) or Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) benefits would be exempt from this fee.
State Senator Jessica Bateman introduced the bill during a public hearing on Wednesday. She emphasized the health and environmental factors motivating the proposal.
“Plastics are not like other organic materials. They do not break down the same way. They can last in our environment anywhere from 20 to 1,000 years. As they break down, they break down into minuscule pieces called micro plastics, which are present in our environment, in our plants that we eat, in people and in our oceans,” Bateman said.
While Bateman believes the bill will benefit the environment and public health, opponents argue it could raise costs, particularly for restaurants offering takeout services.
Kerry Dolan from the Washington Hospitality Association expressed concerns.
“While we understand the intent of this bill is to reduce the use of non customer owned bags, particularly in grocery settings, bags serve an important food safety function in our industry,” Dolan stated. “Removing plastic entirely paired with a 20 cent paper fee makes it harder for our members to ensure both customer safety and affordability.”
The bill is in line with similar laws in California and Oregon, and lawmakers are continuing to debate the best approach. If passed, the ban would take effect on January 1, 2028.
